Kabul: July 19, 2021-(TDI) Today, fifteen diplomatic missions, as well as the NATO representation in Kabul, have released a joint statement. They have asked the Taliban to cease their military operations. The fifteen diplomatic missions to the Islamic Republic of Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the European Union Delegation, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, the United States, and the NATO Senior Civilian Representative demand that the Taliban’s ongoing military offensive be halted.
The joint statement condemned targeted deaths and the damage of infrastructure and communication networks throughout Afghanistan. It further states that these attacks run directly counter to their claim to support a peaceful settlement. The statement further stated that in Taliban-occupied districts, residents claim the attempts to restrict the human rights of women and girls, as well as to shut down media organizations to limit freedom of expression. The Taliban and all other parties are urged to immediately end this violence and comply with a comprehensive ceasefire. They are also asked to participate effectively in peace negotiations. This will not only alleviate the suffering of the Afghan people but will also act as a catalyst for an inclusive peace settlement that benefits all. In this way, Afghanistan will never end up serving as a sanctuary for terrorists.
At the end of the joint statement, fifteen foreign missions and the NATO envoy urged the Taliban to lay down their guns on Eid-ul-Adha and demonstrate their commitment to the peace process to the world.
